TMJ (Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction)

Tempro-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome (TMJ) is a common condition affecting a wide variety of people. TMJ is characterized by severe headaches, jaw pain of varying degrees, grinding teeth, and an intermittent ringing in the ears. The vast majority of TMJ sufferers are unaware that the root cause of these problems is something that a dentist can effectively treat.

The symptoms of TMJ are debilitating and can greatly interfere with every day life. The comfort and general well being of the patient is at the heart of the dental practice, so pain relief is the first consideration of the dentist. The dentist is able to test, diagnose, and devise an immediate plan to treat the underlying causes of the TMJ disorder.

Reasons for treating TMJ

TMJ sufferers report that their symptoms generally worsen during periods of prolonged or unexpected stress, and that intense outbreaks of the condition can lead to neck pain and dizziness.

The most common cause of TMJ is the misalignment of the teeth, often called “bad bite.” It is possible for the dentist to realign or adjust the teeth without the need for painful or expensive surgeries. The realignment/adjustment will stop the pounding headaches, the jaw pain, and the dizziness.

The grinding teeth symptom is particularly common and usually occurs at night. The grinding will eventually erode the structure of the teeth and lead to much more severe dental problems in the future. Untreated TMJ is one of the prime underlying factors in eroded jawbones and loose teeth.

It is important for anyone experiencing the symptoms of TMJ to visit the dentist for an exact diagnosis.

What does treating TMJ involve?

TMJ could be a result of several different problems. Bad bite is the most common, but an injury resulting from a blow to the meniscus cartilage is also a possibility. Initially, the dentist will thoroughly examine the jaw area, the patients bite, take x-rays, and review the patient’s history in order to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend necessary treatment.

Once a firm diagnosis is attained, there are several ways in which relief can be provided. A specially molded bite guard can be created to stop teeth grinding during the night. A bite relationship analysis may be recommended by the dentist. The dentist can also provide advice on relaxation techniques which will lessen the effects of stress. As a last alternative, the dentist is also able to prescribe muscle relaxants.

A better option is to change the shape of the teeth and get rid of the bad bite completely, often called “realignment.” This is especially useful because it alleviates TMJ symptoms and may improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth as well. Realignment involves adjusting the relationship between how the upper teeth come together with the lower teeth. This may require new restorations and/or adjusting the natural teeth as well. It is not a painful procedure, and it is one the dentist has performed with great success numerous times. As with any procedure, the dentist will be happy to answer questions and discuss symptoms, options, and treatments.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of TMJ, we encourage you to contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Testimonials

I have been seeing Dr. Porcu since I was a teenager. I am now 40 years old with a child of my own. He is always very thorough, explains all the options to me, from a simple filling, to an impression for a mouth guard, etc...He lets me know all of my options. He is very caring, and the work he has done has lasted all of these years without having to be replaced, etc... so the quality is good! I took my son there for his first visit at 3 years of age. Dr. Porcu put me in the chair with my son on my lap and examined him. Later, when my son needed a cavity filled at 6 years of age, Dr. Porcu, with his excellent chair-side manner, put my son at ease...so much so that my son never cried or even called out to me during his novacaine shot or the drilling, etc... I was so impressed! I have seen pictures of other dentists offices that cater to children, with all the games and decorations, etc... but I wonder why one would need all that from the moment that the Dentist himself puts the kids at ease...with his calm demeanor, and the way he speaks to them. I am truly very happy with Dr. Porcu, and his staff (the cleanings twice a year performed by his awesome hygienist) that I recommend him to all my friends and family.

Anastasia Damian
Melville, NY

Dear Dr. Porcu, Just a short thank you to your and your staff. During my tooth "emergency" you and your team made me feel so comfortable. While my anxiety level was so high, you and Lina quickly diagnosed my problem, promptly took care of the pain, kept me calm and acted respectfully and professionally but at the same time treated me like family!! The work that you perform Dr. Porcu is always top of the line and the care and concern of those who were in the office that day and the days for my follow-ups are exemplary. Thank you Dr. Porcu, Lina, Nicole and Margaret. Warm Regards.